Setting the Bar High

Exciting things are happening right now with climate action in Charlottesville and in Albemarle County.

Finally, we have the chance to add our voice to the conversation about how we want our local government to address climate change. But, if you’re like me, it can be a little confusing to know exactly where and when to add your voice. That’s why we created a webpage to help you keep track of what’s happening now and the next steps to follow.

Right now, both the City and the County have a public comment period to hear from you about what the newly set greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal should look like. More detailed climate action planning, like deciding which policies and specific strategies to implement, will be hashed out in future phases of this process.

For the City, this first comment period closes on Sunday, March 17th at midnight. The County has a longer public comment period, ending in June or July with the specific date still to be announced. …Which is why C3 has been busily gathering signatures to our Citizen Letter!

So how can you make the most of the comment periods and be sure your opinion is heard?

Before the City’s public comment period closes on Sunday, you should do these two things. First, complete the Community Input Survey. Whether you’re a City or County resident, this survey is for you! The results will help shape both goal-setting processes. Next, send your comments and suggestions to City staff by sending an email to energy@charlottesville.org. County residents can also send their comments to staff by emailing climate@albemarle.org.   

Monday, March 18th is a big day!

The County is hosting an Open House from 4-6PM where County, City and UVA staff will be present to hear from you directly and to answer any questions you have. Later on, there is a regular City Council meeting beginning at 6:30PM. If you’re able, join us at both events to show your support for setting an ambitious GHG emissions reduction goal.

Climate Action Planning is an ongoing process, so stay in the loop.

Looking ahead, the City and County will present their recommended goals at different times and in different ways. City staff will present their recommendations to City Council at the April 15th regular meeting, so mark your calendars! There will be another public comment period to provide feedback on this recommendation through mid-May (with a specific date yet to be announced).

County staff will present their recommendations to the Board of Supervisors (BOS) in June or July with a date yet to be announced, so continue sharing your comments, ideas, and suggestions by emailing climate@albemarle.org to encourage the BOS to set the bar high.

We’re updating the Climate Action Planning Info web page with information as it becomes available, so continue to check-in to know where, when, and how to be heard.

Whether you provide comments through email or you attend every meeting with a climate-friendly soap box, continue to do what you can to #AddYourVoice!